During delicate negotiations to avoid further conflict with Iran, the US government discreetly alerted Iranian officials that Israel could be planning assassinations against prominent Iranian negotiators. This warning came amid efforts by the Trump administration to achieve a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
US officials grew concerned that Israel intended to eliminate Iran's chief negotiators, including the foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf. According to these officials, removing these "pragmatists" could derail the US-led diplomatic initiative aiming to curb hostilities and set a framework for peace. The US delivered the warning to Iran through intermediaries in the spring.
This episode reveals a growing rift between American and Israeli strategies since the conflict began earlier in the year. While Israel targeted high-ranking Iranian figures, including security official Ali Larijani, the US shifted its approach after assessing that regime change was no longer feasible. The Trump administration then focused on negotiating with Iran, relying heavily on the cooperation of moderate Iranian leaders.
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes the emerging US-backed deal, which contemplates lifting some sanctions in exchange for nuclear restrictions but does not aim to remove Iran’s leadership. Israeli officials have not commented on the reported warnings, but a US official emphasized that the administration is committed to allowing the peace process to unfold.